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North Korea test fires short-range missiles

North Korea has test fired two short-range missiles off the east coast of the Korean peninsula, South Korean media has reported. Meanwhile Pyongyang has agreed to release detained Australian missionary John Short.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported that the missiles, fired into the Sea of Japan, were thought to be Scud-C models, capable of flying roughly 500 km (300 miles).

According to South Korea's defense ministry, the missiles are usually fired from launch pads and can be activated with minimal preparation. The distance they can travel would enable them to reach targets in South Korea and Japan.

Monday's report follows claims that Pyongyang carried out a similar test last week, firing four short-range Scud missiles off the east coast.